Planned engineering works: questions, answers and tips

ProRail regularly carries out maintenance on the tracks or at stations. This is essential in order to keep the tracks in good condition or make adjustments to them, so that new routes can be offered for example. This engineering work may affect your train journey or raise questions. On this page, we provide answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling on the train or NS bus while engineering work is taking place.

Can I plan my journey using the Travel Planner and is this information reliable?

Yes, you can plan your journey using the Travel Planner on NS.nl. The planner includes an estimate of the additional travel time as a result of replacement buses, additional transfers or detours that you need to take into account during your journey. Whatever the case, always prepare for an additional travel time of 30 minutes.

Can I travel on an NS bus for free if my train is not running?

No. You need a valid NS ticket if you wish to use an NS bus as replacement transport. With an OV-chipkaart, you travel in the same way as when using the train. You check in at an NS station at the start of your journey. If your journey starts with a bus, then you check in at the NS bus stop using a mobile check in and check out column.

You check out with NS at the NS bus stop at your destination if your journey ends there. If you will be continuing your journey by train, stay checked in and then check out at your final destination. At stations where gates are installed, NS will arrange sufficient open gates to allow you to continue your journey without additional check ins and check outs.

What should I do if I take a detour using a different carrier?

If you travel with a different bus or train provider as part of your route, then make sure you have a valid ticket for the other carrier's mode of transport. You can claim any additional costs from NS Customer Services afterwards.

In some cases, your ticket may be valid with a different carrier, for example because passengers need to travel with a different carrier for a long period of time. In such cases, NS reaches agreements with other carriers. If this is the case, then you can find further information on NS.nl or at the station.

I have an NS season ticket and cannot travel on my route. Do I get a discount?

No, there is no discounts scheme. We arrange transport in the form of NS buses. Since we are dealing with planned engineering work, no schemes apply. For other questions and comments about travelling with your season ticket during route closures, you can contact NS Customer Service

Does the "Refunds for delays" scheme apply?

Yes, the “Refunds for delays” scheme does apply. However, the starting point when calculating the delay is the adjusted journey time in the Travel Planner, in which the additional travel time for the NS bus has been included. You will not receive a refund because the journey takes longer than it would by train. Learn more about the Refunds for delays scheme.

Can I bring my bicycle when buses are being used?

No, you may not bring your bicycle with you on an NS bus. Regrettably, there is no space for bicycles.

Can I bring large luggage, such as a suitcase, when buses are being used?